Trans teen who went missing in Columbus found safe and sound

Ashley’s parents were gravely concerned for her safety, worried that she had been targeted or was the victim of foul play because she is transgender. But police say her disappearance was of her own choosing – that she had planned to take off to meet someone. They say she also admitted to them that she knew they were looking for her, but chose not to let anyone know that she was okay.

Family members said they had last seen Ashley, who also goes by Raymond, Saturday night.

Ashley’s mother, Karalea Lane, said they just moved to northwest Ohio from Lexington three weeks ago. She says they lived in Lexington for close to two years.

The family was in Columbus for a convention for fans of Japanese anime. Lane says it is an annual trip they have been making for several years and is an environment she says Raymond felt comfortable being Ashley.

On Saturday night, Ashley left their hotel and walked across the street to the convention center for a teen dance party. Lane said that was the last time she heard from her child.